Residential Building Inspector B1Building Planning and Life SafetyMedium

An inspector is performing a final inspection of a newly constructed single-family dwelling. The dwelling includes a permanently installed clothes washer. What is the minimum required diameter for the standpipe serving the clothes washer discharge?

  1. A1 1/2 inches
  2. B3 inches
  3. C2 inches
  4. D1 1/4 inches
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. 2 inches

According to IRC P2706.3 for clothes washer standpipes, the standpipe shall be not less than 2 inches (51 mm) in diameter. This ensures adequate drainage capacity for the discharge from the washing machine.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. This diameter is too small for a clothes washer standpipe.
  • B. This diameter would be sufficient but is not the minimum required.
  • D. This diameter is too small for a clothes washer standpipe.

Clothes Washer Standpipe Diameter

Minimum diameter for the plumbing standpipe that receives discharge water from a clothes washing machine.

  • Ensures proper drainage.
  • Prevents overflow.
  • A key plumbing requirement.

Memory trick: For a washer's drain, make sure it's 2 inches wide, or water will rush out with no place to hide.

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